Research Article (Open access) |
---|
SSR Inst. Int. J. Life
Sci., 9(5): 3339-3346, September 2023
Post-COVID Psychological Impact on
Bangladeshi Garment Industry Workers
Medical Officer, Envoy Garments Ltd. (Sister Concern
of Envoy Group), Dhaka, Bangladesh
*Address for Correspondence: Dr. Farhana Zerin, Medical
Officer, Envoy Garments Ltd. (Sister Concern of Envoy Group), Dhaka, Bangladesh
E-mail: fzerin11@gmail.com
ABSTRACT- Background: The
COVID-19 outbreak has impacted people's mental health, particularly in the
workplace. Stress and depression were worsened by job insecurity, social
isolation, and health worries. The Bangladeshi garment sector experienced a
drop in demand due to the lockouts, leading to rising worker poverty levels.
Mental anguish was enhanced as a result of both the delay in wage payments and
safety violations. This study evaluated the psychological consequences
experienced by Bangladeshi garment factory workers in the post-COVID-19 era.
Method:
With factory consent, a study assessed
mental health among Bangladeshi garment workers from January 2023 to July 2023.
Surveys gathered demographic data, medical history, depression, anxiety,
stress, and posttraumatic stress disorder scores (DASS-21, IES-R). Insights on
emotional well-being, work experiences, financial stress, and pandemic effects
were explored. The comprehensive assessment encompassed multiple dimensions,
including emotional, work-related, economic, social, and industry-specific. Inclusion
criteria covered factory workers present during the study, while exclusion
criteria considered chronic disorders and response consistency.
Result:
Regarding gender, 42% were males and 40%
were females. Relationship statuses vary: married (26%), committed (34%),
single (7%), divorced/separated (7%), and widowed (6%). Occupationally,
managerial positions are 8%, supervisors 15%, clerical/administrative 20%,
catering 3%, security 5%, and factory laborers 31%. COVID-19 interactions: 42%
yes, 40% no hemoglobin levels are detailed. In Table
2, the DASS-21 and IES-R scores are compared. Gender differences showed higher
depression and anxiety in females (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
The study concluded that there was
clinically significant depression and anxiety in female workers.
Keywords: Garment
industry, Psychological
well-being, Depression, Anxiety, Stress
INTRODUCTION-
The
COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the worldwide economy and the
well-being of individuals, resulting in critical health effects [1].
The recognition of the significant psychological impact resulting from the
post-COVID period is of the highest importance, particularly regarding its
effect on individuals and communities on a global scale. This is particularly
pertinent in the context of employees across diverse industries. The worldwide
pandemic and its attendant difficulties have precipitated noteworthy
transformations in mental health and overall well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic
has caused various psychological responses, impacting individuals in multiple
dimensions [2]. The presence of ambiguity regarding the virus,
extended periods of lockdown, limited social interaction, and concerns about
contracting the infection have increased stress, worry, and despair. The abrupt
disturbance of regular schedules, economic uncertainty, and employment
terminations have been significant factors in precipitating mental health
concerns. Workers have been undergoing challenges during the pandemic that
others have not. As a result of increased workloads, working alone or from
home, many people report feelings of aloneness and exhaustion, which contribute
to isolation [3]. The dangers and pressures have been especially
harsh for individuals who operate on the front lines, such as healthcare
workers, factory workers, and key service providers. They have difficulty
coping with the stress of working and caring for a family while also being
concerned about contracting the sickness, which has significantly impacted
their mental health.
The
working conditions in Bangladesh's factories have become increasingly
challenging in recent years [4]. The disruptions in the garment
industry, a vital component of the economy, were caused by lockdowns and a
decline in demand from international markets. The emotional suffering of
industrial workers was made worse by job insecurity, pay cuts, and a lack of
access to healthcare. Workers in many other sectors worldwide have encountered
similar challenges [5]. Millions of workers worldwide have been
affected by layoffs, furloughs, and lower wages due to the pandemic's effect on
global supply chains and trade. Mental health has suffered due to increased
feelings of helplessness and financial uncertainty. It is crucial to address
the causes of the psychological effects of the post-COVID period. In addition
to the obvious physical risks, the disruption of daily routines, economic
difficulties, and social isolation have all led to rising rates of anxiety,
depression, and other mental health problems [6]. Individuals and
communities need ready access to mental health care and services to face these
difficulties head-on. Psychology must be at the forefront of all rehabilitation
efforts, requiring action by governments, organizations, and society.
Supportive workplace policies, mental health programs, and community-based
interventions can play a vital role in supporting workers and communities in
recovering from the psychological repercussions of the epidemic [7].
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an uncommon and rare economic downturn
affecting nations globally, including Bangladesh. The prevalent emphasis has
mainly centered on the financial ramifications;
however, it is crucial to recognize and face the profound psychological impacts
experienced by individuals, particularly employees, in the months that followed
the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid adoption of lockdown measures
and restrictions by the government of Bangladesh to preserve human lives has
led to notable effects in terms of employment decline and economic challenges
experienced by a substantial number of workers [8]. Uncertainty
regarding their means of existence leads to increased stress, anxiety, and a
sense of financial vulnerability. According to the Bangladesh Institute of
Development Studies (BIDS), the rise in the unemployment rate in Bangladesh
led to 2.44% increase in the percentage of the entire labor
force affected, resulting in approximately 164 million individuals being pushed
into poverty.
In
Bangladesh, garment workers' health, financial stability, and job security have
all been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic [9]. Workers
and employers in the garment industry are struggling due to the phenomenal
crisis, and the effects are being felt nationwide. Many people in the garment
industry have declined further into poverty due to the epidemic's abrupt loss
of jobs. Bangladesh's lockdown measures were costly in the short term for the
country's economy and the textile sector because there was no treatment or
vaccine available [10]. Concerns have been raised for the safety of
employees despite the slow restart of activities due to a lack of compliance
with safety protection rules. The emotional toll on the garment industry has
been significant, with many workers worried about losing their jobs and
becoming infected with COVID-19. As a result of stress brought on by
unpredictability in their careers and health situations, many workers are
reportedly struggling with mental health concerns [11]. Some
employees have taken to the streets to advocate for their rights after
suffering financial difficulty due to wage delays and reduced pay due to the
economic crisis.
Although
the government of Bangladesh and foreign organizations have issued stimulus
packages and grants to support industry and workers, it is still unclear what
the full impact of the epidemic is on the textile sector and the national
economy. Disruptions in domestic demand, supply chains, international trade,
and the job market have created severe difficulties [12]. It is
critical to acknowledge the workers' central role in generating billions of
dollars annually for factory owners to treat the psychological impact on
workers and foster a permanent recovery. Employees can better weather the storm
if they receive sufficient financial aid, their wages are paid on time, and
mental health programs are in place. COVID-19 has caused significant damage to
Bangladesh's economy and the country's garment industry [13].
Joblessness, export values, and remittances have all risen due to the pandemic.
The issue must be adequately evaluated, and suitable policies must be
implemented using econometric methods and indicator variables, including gross
domestic product, total export values, sales revenue, employment, remittance
inflows, and unemployment rate, to address the difficulties created by the
epidemic.
Moreover,
the COVID-19 epidemic has had severe psychological effects on textile workers
in Bangladesh and elsewhere [14]. Uncertainty about the future,
including employment and health, wage delays, and financial difficulties, has
increased stress and anxiety. The health of employees and the long-term growth
of Bangladesh's garment industry and economy depend on the government's
attention to these psychological difficulties and appropriate recovery
strategies. The study's objective was to provide insights into the emotional
well-being in terms of anxiety and clinical depression of garment factory
workers and propose strategies to enhance their support during the epidemic.
Research Design- A study was conducted to examine the
mental health of garment factory workers at a garment factory in Bangladesh.
The study was conducted from January 2023 to July 2023. Before conducting the
study, consent was sought from the relevant management body of the factory.
Subsequently, a survey was performed in the factory. Each factory worker was
questioned about several parameters, such as demographic information, medical
background, and scores on established depression, anxiety, stress, and posttraumatic
stress disorder symptoms (DASS-21, IES-R), which were gathered from the
participants.
To
comprehensively assess the post-COVID-19 pandemic psychological impact on
Bangladeshi garment industry workers, a series of probing questions was
designed to delve into various dimensions of their experiences. First, it is
crucial to inquire about the overall emotional well-being of workers since the
pandemic. Questions aimed to understand changes in mood, stress levels, and
overall mental health. Inquiries regarding feelings of isolation, anxiety, or
depression during and after the pandemic can provide insights into the
psychological toll.
In
addition, it is important to explore any alterations in work-related
experiences. Questions about changes in the work environment, job security, workload,
and interactions with colleagues and supervisors can uncover potential sources
of stress or empowerment. Understanding how workers perceive their job roles
and whether they feel supported by their employers can illuminate the dynamics
influencing their psychological state. The financial impact of the pandemic is
another vital aspect to investigate. Queries regarding financial hardships,
concerns about income stability, and the ability to meet basic needs can help
gauge the stressors arising from economic uncertainties. Exploring coping
mechanisms workers employ to manage financial stress can offer insights into
their resilience and adaptive strategies. Moreover, the effects of any public
health measures or workplace changes implemented in response to the pandemic
should be examined. Questions about adjustments in safety protocols, remote
work, or changes in work hours can provide insight into the perceived impact of
such measures on the workers' psychological state.
The
study considered a comprehensive assessment of the post-COVID psychological
impact on Bangladeshi garment industry workers that should encompass inquiries
into emotional well-being, work-related experiences, financial stress, social
dynamics, responses to public health measures, and industry-specific concerns.
This multifaceted approach can provide a nuanced understanding of the
challenges and resilience of these workers in the face of unprecedented
circumstances.
Inclusion and exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria
●
Garment factory workers work in the
factory where the study was conducted.
●
Those workers who were present in
the factory for the period of study.
●
The workers who had shared all
relevant information and those who could show evidence of their responses if
asked.
Exclusion criteria
●
Those who had chronic underlying
disorders that may interfere with the study findings.
●
Those who left their job at the
concerned factory.
●
Those who did not or could not share
the relevant information.
●
Those who lost interest in the
middle of the study.
Statistical analysis- The data analysis was conducted
utilizing IBM SPSS V.26. Continuous variables were summarized using means for
each group, whereas categorical variables were described using percentages and
frequency counts. An independent sample t-test and a Mann‒Whitney U test
were employed to assess the statistical significance of the differences in
continuous variables between the groups. The statistical significance of
categorical variables was evaluated using a χ2 test for independence. A
p-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Ethical approval- This study followed ethical norms to
protect participants' rights, safety, and well-being. The applicable
institutional review board (IRB) or the management committee of the factory
approved the research before starting to ensure ethical compliance with human
subject research guidelines.
Table 1: Participant characteristics at
baseline
Value |
Percentage |
|
Average age (IQR), years |
40.7 (32 48) |
|
|
||
Male |
42 |
51.22 |
Female |
40 |
48.78 |
Relationship status, % (n) |
||
Married |
26 |
31.71 |
In a committed relationship |
34 |
41.46 |
Single |
7 |
8.54 |
Divorced/separated |
7 |
8.54 |
Widowed |
6 |
7.32 |
Types of workers |
||
Managerial positions |
8 |
9.76 |
Supervisors |
15 |
18.29 |
Clerical or administrative staff |
20 |
24.39 |
Catering |
3 |
3.66 |
Security |
5 |
6.10 |
Factory labours |
31 |
37.80 |
Interaction with COVID-19 patients
(n) |
||
Yes |
42 |
51.22 |
No |
40 |
48.78 |
Hemoglobin level in males |
||
> 13 g/dL |
35 |
42.68 |
<13 g/dL |
7 |
8.54 |
Hemoglobin level in females |
||
> 12 g/dL |
29 |
35.37 |
< 12 g/dL |
11 |
13.41 |
Table
2 shows sample subgroup DASS-21 and IES-R results. Females differ in sadness
and anxiety, direct COVID-19 patient contact may affect psychological distress,
and anemia is linked to increased anguish. In the
studied setting, statistically significant differences underscore the
importance of observable patterns in comprehending psychological well-being. It
compared sample population subgroup DASS-21 and IES-R scores. Subgroups with
p-values below 0.05 vary statistically in the table. For men, the mean DASS-21
depression score was 5.36, but for women, 8.45. The mean DASS-21 anxiety score
for women was 7.44, compared to 4.95 for men. Relationship-less people scored
somewhat higher on depression (4.88) and anxiety (3.82). Since the scores
between these two relationship status groups were not statistically significant
(p>0.05), relationship support may not significantly alter sadness and
anxiety. Mean depression (4.53) and anxiety (5.1) were considerably lower
without COVID-19 contact. Direct COVID-19 patient
engagement is associated with higher psychological distress (p<0.05).
Table 2:
Comparison of DASS-21 and IES-R scores among subgroups of the sample population
and statistical significance
Characteristic |
DASS-21 depression (mean) |
DASS-21 anxiety (mean) |
Gender* |
||
Male |
5.36 |
4.95 |
Female |
8.45 |
7.44 |
Relationship status |
||
Relationship support |
4.46 |
3.89 |
Without relationship support |
4.88 |
3.82 |
Direct interaction with COVID-19 patients* |
||
Yes |
9.29 |
9.1 |
No |
4.53 |
5.1 |
Less Hemoglobin level (Anemia)* |
||
Yes |
6.36 |
6.15 |
No |
4 |
3.2 |
*Statistically
significant (p<0.05) between males and females or Yes and No for each su
bsection
In
contrast to other nations, Bangladesh exhibited a somewhat manageable
condition; however, the country's performance in total tests conducted per
million residents and the proportion of fully vaccinated individuals per 100
people was rather inadequate. The study found that the epidemic hit Bangladesh
in four distinct waves, with the third and fourth waves being the most severe.
The lockdowns effectively limited the spread of the virus, as seen by the
slower propagation rate during certain times [17]. Daily COVID-19
infections in Bangladesh averaged 2,698, resulting in approximately 41.36
fatalities and 2,385 recoveries. Daily, the country ran an average of 18,400.39
exams. There were approximately 1.8452 fatalities and 74.9007 recoveries for
every 100 confirmed cases. Another study that determined the effects of the
COVID-19 outbreak in Bangladesh used the time series variables gross domestic
product (GDP) , total export values (TEX) , sales revenue of the garment
industry (REVGS), employment in the garment sector (EMP) , remittance inflows
(REM) , and unemployment rate (UNR) [18]. Based on the econometric
test results, DRRC was shown to have the greatest "coefficient of
variation (CV)", followed by DTR, DTD, DTC, DRTC, TT, and RRTC. Except for
RRTC, all other variables had positively skewed and leptokurtic distributions.
DTC, DTD, DTR, TT, DRTC, RRTC, and DRRC all had statistically significant
population means.
TEX, REVGS, REM, GDP, EMP, and UNR were determined to be the
most changeable economic indicators [19]. Leptokurtic curves were
found for TEX and UNR, while platykurtic curves were found for GDP, REVGS, REM,
and EMP. Statistically, every single economic factor was important. Strong and
statistically significant correlations were found between total cases, total
fatalities, total recoveries, and total tests. Bangladesh's garment industry
and economy have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak [20].
The epidemic's impacts on the country's economy were not as direct as in other
places, but they were still noticeable. It will be essential to take prompt
action and implement effective policies if the garment industry and the economy
of Bangladesh are to recover sustainably.
In
the beginning, during the lockdown times, factory workers in Bangladesh
experienced enormous financial challenges [21]. Many workers had
been laid off or had their hours cut due to companies temporarily closing and
orders being canceled by international consumers and
brands. The workers and their families were experiencing a great deal of stress
and anxiety due to the unexpected loss of income and the lack of assurance
regarding their future employment. Although the COVID-19 outbreak had a
significant financial impact on Bangladesh's garment sector and economy, it
also had complete psychological effects on the country's labor
force, mainly factory employees [22]. Multiple factors contributed
to the emotional stress felt by these employees as they dealt with the
unexpected and long crisis brought on by the pandemic. Second, the virus's
threat of serious disease or death contributed to the psychological burden. Factory
workers are worried about their health and safety as the virus spreads
worldwide, including locally [23]. Fear of infection and job loss
made them feel vulnerable and helpless. The crisis and the national economy's unfavorable influence increased workers' worry. The
clothing industry, a key exporter, suffered from declining global demand for
goods and services. Workers worried about job security and the future due to
fewer opportunities for employment and higher competition for restricted
positions during the financial crisis [24]. Increased unemployment
reflected the psychological impact. The pandemic cost many employees their
jobs, affecting their finances, self-esteem, and mental health. The dread of
being unable to support their families and the shame of unemployment caused
melancholy and inadequacy. Garment employees reported food problems throughout
the lockdown, with many having no food at home [25]. This dreadful
circumstance affected their physical and mental well-being. Workers'
psychological distress was increased by the anxiety of insufficient foodstuffs
for their families. Female workers' mental health was particularly affected by
the pandemic. Women reported sexual assault and harassment during lockdowns,
compounding the psychological toll [26]. The threat of workplace
violence and uncertainty created a hostile work environment and increased
stress and trauma, affecting their mind. The tension, foreboding, and economic
and employment insecurity caused by the virus harmed the emotional well-being
of employees worldwide. Bangladesh's garment industry and economy were also
severely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak [27]. Employees were
under tremendous stress and anxiety due to financial hardships, fear of
infection, job insecurity, and incidents of violence and harassment. To
guarantee the well-being of employees and their families in the post-COVID
future, the government and relevant parties must address the psychological
impact of the pandemic [28].
CONCLUSIONS- The study found that female employees, those with a history of COVID-19,
and those with anemia exhibited clinically
significant levels of depression and anxiety. Due to overwork, there is
pervasive distress among garment factory employees. It is impossible to
overstate the significance of safeguarding the well-being of factory workers.
To accomplish this, it is essential to implement measures such as screening for
mental health outcomes, rigorous testing of psychotherapy treatments, and
establishing effective support mechanisms. These strategies are crucial for
protecting the mental and emotional welfare of employees. Considering this
infectious disease's short- and long-term consequences is imperative. The
research relies on self-reported information, which has limitations. This
dependency may impair the authenticity of responses and result in recollection
bias.
This
study does not account for the participants' mental history and socioeconomic
status, which may influence assessment scores and the efficacy of
individualized therapy. Location, timing, and selection bias limit the
generalizability of the study.
Contribution
of Authors-
One author has only contributed to this article.
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